With Maduro Captured by U.S., Who Leads Venezuela Now?

Venezuela is grappling with a significant political upheaval following the arrest of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. The U.S. military operation in Caracas has raised questions about the future of the country and its leadership.

Key Developments Following Maduro’s Arrest

The military operation, conducted by U.S. forces, marks a turning point in Venezuelan politics. The question now is who will lead Venezuela after Maduro’s capture.

• Delcy Rodríguez, the current Vice President, is next in line per the 1999 Constitution.
• Jorge Rodríguez, President of the National Assembly and Delcy’s brother, is the third in line.
• Diosdado Cabello, a key figure in the government, remains as Minister of the Interior and controls the civil-military structure.

State Reactions and Uncertainty

In the aftermath of the arrest, there is widespread uncertainty regarding the current leadership. Initial reports indicated that Delcy Rodríguez might have fled to Russia, but later sources claimed she was still in Caracas.

In the streets of Caracas and other areas, reactions varied. While many expressed disbelief and fear, others seemed calmer.

The Chavista Response

The government showed no apparent signs of fragmentation despite Maduro’s capture. The revolution remains deeply embedded within Venezuela’s state apparatus. Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodríguez called for updates on the president’s well-being, demanding an immediate “proof of life” from U.S. authorities.

Hours after the arrest, U.S. President Donald Trump shared an image of Maduro in custody, claiming that the U.S. would take control until a “fair and orderly transition” occurred.

Political Opposition and Exiled Voices

The Venezuelan political opposition has maintained a cautious silence, while figures in exile, such as María Corina Machado, expressed readiness to assume power. Machado outlined plans to restore order and release political prisoners.

Internal State of Emergency

The Chavista government declared a state of emergency, aiming to maintain control amid rising tensions. Rodríguez emphasized that Maduro had left clear instructions to the military for the protection of the nation.

• Diosdado Cabello denounced the U.S. attack as treacherous.
• Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino criticized U.S. intervention as an attempt to change the regime.
• Both national and international bodies have been urged to condemn the military actions against Venezuela.

As the situation unfolds, the stability of the Venezuelan government and the future leadership remain precarious. The coming days will be crucial in determining the path forward for Venezuela amidst this unprecedented crisis.